Hey there, fellow adventurers! So, you're planning a backpacking trip and you're wondering how to get your gear onto an airplane without breaking the bank or your precious tent poles. Fear not, for I am here to give you some tips and tricks to make sure your gear arrives safe and sound, and you don't end up spending half your trip in the airport trying to locate your lost luggage.
First things first, let's start with a gear checklist. You don't want to forget anything important, like your trusty compass or your lucky socks. So, make a list and check it twice, like Santa Claus, but instead of presents, it's your gear. And instead of a sleigh, you're probably taking a plane. Here's a quick list of some essential gear you might want to pack:
Backpack
Choose a backpack with a capacity of at least 30 liters, depending on your needs and the length of your hike. (I carry a 40L)
Make sure the backpack fits well and is comfortable for long hikes.
Shelter
Tent, tarp, or hammock (depending on your preference)
Tent stakes
Guy lines
Footprint or ground cloth (if using a tent)
Sleeping
Sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures on your hike
Sleeping pad (choose between foam or inflatable)
Pillow (optional)
Cooking
Stove (choose between canister, alcohol, or wood-burning stoves)
Cookware (pot, pan, bowl, utensils)
Water filter or purification tablets
Bear canister or bear bag (depending on the requirements of the trail)
Make sure you don't pack any type of fuel
Water filter or tablets
Clothing
Hiking boots or trail running shoes
Socks (wool or synthetic)
Base layer (top and bottom, preferably moisture-wicking)
Mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
Rain jacket or poncho
Hat or beanie
Gloves or mittens
Sunglasses
Hygiene
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Soap or hand sanitizer
Toilet paper or wipes
Trowel (for digging cat holes)
Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
Navigation
Map and compass
GPS (optional)
Headlamp
Spare batteries
Miscellaneous
Trekking poles
First aid kit
Repair kit (duct tape, needle and thread, etc.)
Knife
Whistle
Water bottle
External battery pack for electronic devices
Optional
Camera
Book or e-reader
Journal and pen
Trekking umbrella
Camp shoes or sandals
Earplugs
Now that you've got your gear checklist sorted, it's time to pack it all up. When it comes to air travel, you'll want to separate your checked luggage from your carry-on. Items like external batteries and liquids need to go in your carry-on bag (be sure to check airline regulations for allowable amounts), while tent poles and trekking poles should be checked. And if you're flying with a backpack, you'll want to pack everything inside your pack and wrap it in plastic wrap or bubble wrap, or both. Trust me, you don't want to collect your pack and find a tent pole poking out.
Once your pack is wrapped up nice and snug, you might want to consider placing it in a cheap duffle bag that you can donate or discard after the flight. This will not only protect your pack, but it will also make it easier to transport around the airport. And speaking of transportation, colorful tape or other identification markers can be a great way to quickly identify your luggage when you go to pick it up from the baggage carousel. Plus, it'll make your gear stand out from the sea of black and gray suitcases.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "But, what if my gear gets lost or delayed?" Well, my dear adventurer, this is always a risk when traveling with luggage. But fear not, for there are a few things you can do to prepare for the worst. Firstly, make sure you have travel insurance that covers lost or delayed baggage. Secondly, pack a change of clothes and some essential items in your carry-on bag, just in case your checked luggage doesn't make it to your destination on time. And lastly, stay calm and enjoy the adventure, because sometimes the best experiences come from unexpected situations.
So, there you have it, folks! A quick guide to traveling with backpacking gear on an airplane. Just remember to make a gear checklist, separate your checked luggage from your carry-on, pack everything inside your pack and wrap it up nice and snug, use colorful tape to identify your luggage, and prepare for the worst with travel insurance and a backup plan. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey!
Comments